Who Will Have A Better Year: Percy Harvin Or Randall Cobb?
By Keith Myers
May 20, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin (11) participates in organized team activities at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Burke from Sport Illustrated posed an interesting question a couple days ago: Who will have the better 2013 season, Percy Harvin or Randall Cobb?
You’ll probably notice that this question has little to do with who the better player is. No one outside of Green Bay would suggest that Cobb is the better overall player. Cobb is great, don’t get me wrong, but Harvin is one of the most explosive players in the entire NFL.
Cobb though, is likely to be given a lot more opportunities because of the offense that he plays in. That was my answer that is quoted in Burke’s article. With Marshawn Lynch and Christine Michael, the Seahawks are likely to run the ball more than any other team in the NFL in 2013, and that will limit Harvin’s touches.
The Packers pass-first offense will simply present more chances for the ball to be in Cobb’s hands than Harvin is likely to get. Then again, Harvin will likely get a chance to return kicks, and may see some time in the backfield when the Seahawks run the read-option.
Burke’s conclusion was that Harvin is likely to have the better year. He cites the overall lack of quality of Seattle’s other WRs when compared to those of Green Bay. Harvin will be Russell Wilson’s best option, a fact that is difficult to dispute. Plus, Rogers is the type of QB who spreads the ball around among 6 or 7 targets each game, which will limit Cobb’s productivity.
Ultimately, it’s an academic question with little meaning once the game’s begin. Both a great players and likely to have tremendous years. The debate is still fun though, and as we trudge through the longest and most boring part of the offseason, such distractions can be amusing.
You’ve now read my take on the subject, as well as a summary of Burke’s opinion on the matter. Now it’s your turn. Vote below, and give your explanation in the comments section below.